Monday, June 15, 2015

A Re-Visit: You Belong In The Zoo

Originally posted in December 2012, now it's updated:

Have you ever thought about working at a
zoo??

The obvious career at the zoo would be a veterinarian, one who
specializes in zoo animals. Sometimes a zoo vet will further specialize, working
with reptiles, large cats, raptors, swimming mammals, the equine family (horses and their relatives), or animals particular to a
certain environment. Vet Technicians are always needed to assist these
veterinarians, as well.

There are a lot of other roles to be played in a
zoo. Here is a list of some of them:

Animal curator-this is someone who
keeps track of the collections in a zoo; so this person might be a curator of
mammals, reptiles, aquatic animals, birds, etc.

Curator of Education-Zoos
usually have educational programs for students of various ages, who can come and
visit and learn about animals in an 'up close and personal' way.

Curator
of Exhibits-This person helps to create the exhibits in such a way that is
healthy for the animals but still allows the public to view them
safely.

Conservation Biologist or Zoologist-These are scientists and
biologists who assist in the management of the collection, and who also do
research and concentrate on the conservation of wildlife (being aware of
endangered species).

Zoo Keepers-these are the people responsible for the
day to day care of the animals, including making sure each environment is kept
clean, noting when an animal needs veterinary care, and also managing the food
for the animals.

Managing food at the London Zoo. Notice the 'wall' of bananas

Also interesting, he is wearing a chef's shirt just the same as if he was cooking for people.

Registrar-This person tracks the collection and keeps an
'inventory' of every animal in the zoo.

Director and Assistant
Director-These are the people responsible for the management of the whole
zoo.

Directors of Research-Research is needed on which animals to obtain
and what kind of environment they need.

Docents-These are people who
volunteer to share their knowledge of animals with zoo
visitors.

Personnel and Volunteer Coordinators-These people manage the people who work and volunteer at the
zoo.

Operations-Maintenance-People are needed to keep the zoo running,
which includes the power grids, utilities, landscaping for the grounds, keeping
the buildings in working order, repairing broken fencing, and replenishing
supplies, and the task of keeping the zoo clean is never-ending.

Special Events Manager-When the zoo hosts a special event, such
as 'Zoo Boo' at Como Park Zoo, this person would be in charge of the event and
would make sure it happens successfully.

Gift Shop Manager-Most zoos have
gift shops and need people to run them.

As with any business, there would
be a need for Public Relations and Marketing; Fund-raising; Accounting and Chief
Financial Officer; Membership Managers; and records management.